soothe

verb

ˈsüt͟h 

soothed; soothing

transitive verb

1

: to please by or as if by attention or concern : placate

2

: relieve, alleviate

soothe a cough

3

: to bring comfort, solace, or reassurance to

music soothes the soul

intransitive verb

: to bring peace, composure, or quietude

soother noun

Synonyms of soothe

• reassure
• assure
• comfort

Examples of soothe in a Sentence

The waiter tried to soothe the angry customer.

This cream soothes aching muscles.

Her nerves were soothed by a warm bath.

Nothing can soothe their pain.

Recent Examples on the Web

The former helps to destroy acne-causing bacteria and reduce sebum production, while the latter rejuvenates and soothes, making for a comprehensive three-minute treatment to calm and clarify skin. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 26 Nov. 2025

Tight muscles and sore joints can be soothed by massage while also improving circulation. —Eileen Falkenberg-Hull, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Nov. 2025

Belif's The True Cream Aqua Bomb is packed with the most hydrating ingredients on the block, like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and a ton of herbal goodies (like lady’s mantle) to soothe and cool your skin. —Lily Wohlner, Allure, 26 Nov. 2025

The temperature of warm milk—while not scientifically proven to help with sleep—can have a soothing psychological effect. —Lauren Manaker, SELF, 26 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English sothen to verify, from Old English sōthian, from sōth

First Known Use

1617, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for soothe

• smooth

Kids Definition

soothe

verb

ˈsüt͟h 

soothed; soothing

1

: to please by or as if by attention or concern : placate

2

: alleviate, relieve

the lotion soothed his sunburn

3

: to bring comfort : calm down

music soothes the soul